Dietitian Pick of the Month: Beanitos

Try this month's dietitian pick: Beanitos^TM! Beanitos^TM are chips made with beans, which means they are loaded with nutrition. Here are five reasons to choose Beanitos^TM:

1. High in fiber! Studies have shown that diets high in fiber may help lower LDL cholesterol levels (the 'bad' cholesterol).
2. Variety! Beanitos^TM are made with black, white and pinto beans that come in several delicious flavors.
3. Beanitos^TM may help you maintain a healthy body weight-foods high in fiber and protein may help reduce appetite.
4. They are gluten-free, MSG-free and corn-free, making them a good option for those with food allergies and sensitivities.
5. Beanitos^TM are a kid-friendly healthy snack-great for after-school snacking!

Beanitos^TM taste delicious all by themselves or with your favorite hummus or guacamole. You could also substitute the Triscuits for Beanitos^TM in Ned's Nacho Recipe. If you're feeling adventurous, check out the recipes below for some new dinner and snack ideas using Beanitos^TM!

Beanitos^TM Chips Chicken:
Serves 6.
1 egg
1 tbsp milk
1/4 cup white rice flour
1 (6 oz) bag nacho cheese flavored Beanitos^TM chips, crushed
Salt, pepper and garlic powder, to taste
2 pounds chicken breast, pounded thin and cut into 6 portions
2 tbsp butter, cut into 1/4-inch cubes

All you do:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Whisk egg and milk together in one bowl. Place white rice flour in separate bowl. Put Beanitos^TM chips, salt, pepper and garlic powder in separate bowl.
3. Lightly dip chicken in flour and then in egg wash. Dredge chicken in Beanitos^TM chips.
4. Place chicken breasts in prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the butter cubes between and over the chicken. Cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

Source: adapted from beanitos.com.

Chocolate Covered Bananas:
Serves 10.
1 bag dark chocolate chips, melted
3 or 4 bananas, sliced
1 bag white bean Beanitos^TM chips, crushed

All you do:
1. Melt chocolate according to package instructions.
2. Dip banana slices in the melted chocolate and top with crushed Beanitos^TM.
3. Place on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour.
4. Store in a freezer.

Source: adapted from beanitos.com.

-Dietitian Amanda